Hyde was too confounded and stupefied to make any reply. These revelations coming upon him like successive shocks from a galvanic-battery, were too much for his equanimity. Awestruck and stunned, he stared stupidly, first at Vance, then at the flag, and finally at Peek.
The roll of the drum, accompanied by Vance’s orders to the soldiers, roused him, and then attaching himself to Peek, he marched on with the rest, Peek beguiling the way with much useful and enlightening information.
They had not marched farther than the next carriage-stand when Vance, leaving Captain Onslow in command, with orders to bivouac in Canal Street, slipped out of the ranks, and beckoning to Peek and his companions, they all, including Antoine and Hyde, entered a vehicle which drove off with the faithful Victor running at its side.
Behold them now in Vance’s old room at the St. Charles. The immediate matter of concern was, how to find Clara? How was the search to be commenced?
Antoine, a bright, well-formed negro of cheerful aspect, after scratching his wool thoughtfully for a moment, said: “Peek, you jes gib me them two glubs you say you’ve got.”
Antoine then took the gloves, and, throwing them on the floor, called Victor’s attention to them, and said: “Now, Vic, I want yer to show these gemmen your broughten up. Ob dem two glubs, you jes bring me de one dat you tink you kn fine de owner ob right off straight, widout any mistake. Now, be car’ful.”
Victor snuffed at the large glove, and instantly kicked it aside with contempt. Then, after a thoughtful scenting of the small glove, he took it up in his mouth and carried it to Antoine.
“Berry well,” said Antoine. “Dat’s your choice, is it? Now tell me, Vic, hab yer had yer dinner?”
The dog barked affirmatively.
“Berry well. Now take a good drink.” And, filling a washbowl with water, Antoine gave it to the dog, who lapped from it greedily.